Introduction TiVO Stream Device Review
I had been trying out many different Streaming devices for the camper. The Furrion TVs in my Jayco while pretty good are not “Smart” TVs. I have tried out Ruko, Fire Sticks, and etc. I was considering Apple TV but the cost is too high. Especially since my large 5th wheel has 4 TVs. I wanted something cost-effective where I could get one for each without spending a fortune.
So I randomly came across TiVO Stream while actually shopping for some camping supplies. WHY NOT right? I have a TiVO system at home from my cable provider which I am extremely happy with. I checked some reviews online while walking around and decided to try it out. Worth a try as it was on sale for $39 at Walmart. As I was not truly satisfied with the Roku stick.
Unboxing
TiVO Stream came well packaged with everything I needed to set it up. The instructions were easy to follow and I had it running quickly.
Whats Included:
- Main Device – Well made box with a short HDMI cable
- USB Cable – power
- USB Wall Wort (Not pictured as I didn’t use)
- Remote including batteries – We will get into that later
- Instructions
TiVO Stream Remote
Installation
Installation was pretty straightforward as it comes to these streaming devices. I plugged everything up and followed the on-screen instructions.
Instructions:
- Unboxing to ensure you received all the parts listed above.
- Plug the main unit into HDMI port on your TV.
- Take the provided USB cord and plug it into the main unit.
- Plug into a USB port on the TV for power. (What I did)
- OR use provided wall wart to plug into a wall socket.
- Put provided batteries in remote control.
- Startup TV
- Follow on-screen instructions (Good to have a tablet or phone around for easy sign-in to streaming services.)
- Let it update its self and choose apps to update. I just updated them all.
- Signup for free TiVO Account
- Sign in to streaming services
You are Ready to Rock and Roll now!
Main Review of the TiVO Stream Device
Installation Review: 5 Stars
The installation went seamlessly. It connected and set up without any issues whatsoever. For once, I was not “googling” to figure out some kind of issue. The instructions were simple to get plugged up and on-screen instructions take you through even setting up the streaming services I use.
Equipment Quality: 4 Stars
It could easily be 5 Stars but I have huge expectations for “tech.” To give you an idea, Roku stick equipment I would give 2 Stars for equipment quality. Everything is well built and feels very heavy duty for “trying to be lightweight.” Especially the main device box. What makes me say 4 Stars is I love my at-home TiVO remote being much larger. The provided remote is smaller than its at home “cousin.” This smaller remote seems pretty typical for streaming devices, but DARN I Always LOSE my remotes and larger size helps.
Operating System: 4.5 Stars
Software from setup to use is great. I only take 1/2 a star away as it has some learning curve to it. But that is only due to being so advanced. It came with all the Streaming Services such as Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and etc. It also offers where you can download others from the “Android Store.” It is FAR more advanced than any other streaming devices I have used. HUGE thing! It doesn’t try to only push you to certain software or services like Roku or Firestick.
One of the big things I want to highlight, the GUIDE really separates it from other devices! It has a guide that includes all the shows and movies from multiple services you sign into. You no longer have to sign into and out of apps looking around for something to watch.
Remote: 5 Stars
The remote is the best part besides the small size I mentioned earlier. It is well built and offers all the options that many of the more expensive models of other devices offer. It has voice commands, hotkeys, scrolling, and etc. It is by FAR the best streaming device remote!
Overall Review: 5 Stars
TiVO Streaming device is one of the most affordable options but packed with all the features of the most expensive devices. Apple TV is over 200 dollars. After using it for few trips, I am completely sold on it. I have gone ahead and added 3 more so each TV in my 5th Wheel has one. I know, but I am lazy and hate having to move it around. Currently, it was on sale for $29 so the investment was very minimal. It is definitely a MUST HAVE addition to your camper!